It has been 14 years since the 9/11 attacks, but comedian and former "Daily Show" host Jon Stewart is still lobbying for the first responders who were in action that day. Many of those brave individuals developed health problems related to their vicinity to the attacks, such as cancer, lung problems and physical disabilities.
According to Time magazine, Stewart is scheduled to lobby Congress for a bill that will preserve a health program for 9/11 first responders. Stewart's involvement was announced recently by New York Senator Kirsten Gillibrand on her Twitter account.
"Today, I spoke about the need for Congress to #renew911health programs, 1 of which is set to expire on Sept 30 if we fail to take action," Gillibrand tweeted on Sept. 8. "Honored Jon Stewart will join 9/11 heroes next week, but fact is, they shouldn't have to walk the halls of Congress at all. #renew911health"
Gillibrand and Stewart want to bring about an extension for The World Trade Center Health Program, which, according to Time provides health services for over 30,000 police officers, firefighters and emergency medical technicians. The pair will argue to make the program permanent, allowing the first responders to receive continual medical care for their 9/11-related illnesses and injuries.